Eco-Friendly Travel: Reducing Your Carbon Footprint on the Road

Many of us try to be more environmentally conscious at home. We recycle, cut back on waste, and pay attention to energy use. Travel, however, often feels like a different story. Flights, hotels, and transportation choices can add up quickly, and it’s easy to feel unsure where greener choices even fit in.

That uncertainty has led more travelers to ask a basic question before packing their bags: how can I travel in a way that’s a little easier on the planet? The answer usually comes down to everyday decisions made before and during the trip.

Eco-Friendly Travel: An Emerging Trend

Awareness of environmental issues related to travel has prompted many to look for ways to minimize impact on the earth when they hit the road. This attitude often guides choices in destinations, transportation, and accommodations.

Destinations

Some countries and cities market themselves as eco-friendly. For example, countries like Iceland, New Zealand, and Costa Rica boast such features as sustainability-oriented laws, carbon-free energy, or wildlife conservation policies.

Many cities around the world pride themselves on being “green.” Examples are San Diego, Copenhagen, and Curitiba (Brazil). Singapore is another such destination, with some of the lowest air and water pollution rates on Earth, strict energy efficiency standards for buildings and vehicles, and a carbon tax implemented in 2019.

Air Travel

Although it only contributes about 2% of total annual global carbon dioxide, this will only increase since air traffic growth has grown an average of 4.5% per year. As a result, airlines are exploring the widespread use of biofuels to reduce carbon emissions. They also support the development of all electric aircraft that don’t burn fossil fuels.

Accommodations

Innkeepers run the gamut of options for eco-friendly practices. At one end of the spectrum are accommodations that provide everything from energy-efficient buildings to carbon-free energy sources to minimized waste streams. On the opposite side are locations that don’t even recycle.

Finding places to stay that have a high commitment to environmental preservation requires a bit of research. Start with a location’s website to determine what concrete ways they care for the earth. Also, 3rd party websites list hotels and other options that practice sustainability.

With the rise of short-term vacation rentals, travelers can choose eco-friendly accommodations within networks like Airbnb and VRBO. The property description often describes any earth-friendly practices and policies. If not, reach out to the host with any questions.

Other Ideas for Eco-Conscious Travelers

Even at less eco-friendly destinations, travelers can make choices that help support the environment.

Make Air Travel More Efficient

Book airline tickets for non-stop trips in economy class because such passengers have the lowest carbon footprint. Look for airlines that have solid reputations for sustainability practices. Also, consider staying in places longer rather than jetting to multiple destinations.

Trains, Buses, and Ships

Consider skipping the plane and taking alternative transport like the train, bus, or ship. Although these modes take longer to reach a destination, there is a particular virtue in enjoying a more leisurely journey. In nearly all cases, these options produce less pollution per passenger mile than airliners. With ships, however, context is key. Cruise ships have come in for criticism for their emissions. Cruise lines have responded by increasing the use of liquified natural gas (LNG) for fuel, but even this alternative has emissions drawbacks. Consult the cruise company’s website for information on their environmental practices.

Rent a High-MPG Car

If one’s personal vehicle is not easy on gas, consider renting a high-MPG car, especially for long trips. Another upside of this option is that rental vehicles tend to have lower mileage, so the risk of mechanical breakdown may be lower. This tactic keeps the mileage down on the personal vehicle.

Destination Transportation

After arrival, travelers have low-impact options for getting around, like public transportation, bicycles, or walking.

Handling Accommodations

Look for accommodations that list certifications like Green Key, LEED, or EarthCheck. Once checked into an accommodation, there are some actions that can reduce impacts on the planet. For example, reduce housekeeping services by reusing towels and putting the “Do Not Disturb” tag outside the door. If the property does not have on-site recycling, consider taking appropriate items to a community recycling location. If that’s not feasible, car travelers can bag up items and recycle them after returning home.

Eating and Shopping Locally

Local shopping and eating are often the most eco-friendly options. These operations are more likely to depend on and support the local economy and other small-scale businesses, which means that they avoid long, resource-intensive supply chains. Food is likely to be fresher, and buying from local merchants means more of the price paid ends up in their bank accounts.

Pack Lighter/Wash More

The less weight packed for a trip translates into fewer resources to haul heavy suitcases around. Check out wash-and-wear travel clothing that dries quickly. A quick hand-wash job and overnight drying can mean fresh clothing every day. It beats the alternative of packing more clothes and hauling an accumulating pile of dirty laundry for the remainder of the trip.

Choose Adventures Wisely

Think about the environmental impacts when day-tripping at the destination. For example, suppose an excursion requires riding in a smog-belching bus. An alternative could be a bike tour, often using an electric model. They require less physical stamina and can travel further with less rider fatigue than conventional bikes.

Be a Good Eco-Citizen

Consider the environmental impact of doing standard vacation stuff. For example, stay on designated routes and avoid disturbing wildlife habitats if hiking. Also, bring a container and pack out any personal trash. If possible, pick up any other refuse unless it's too bulky. In those cases, alert the proper authorities so they can send a cleaning detail.

When swimming in the ocean, be aware that sunscreen washes off and can injure coral and marine life. Consider using mineral-based sunscreen or sun-resistant clothing when enjoying the beach.

Consider Carbon Offsets

Carbon offsetting is a way to compensate for one’s carbon use by funding initiatives that reduce carbon emissions. Individuals can go to websites like

ClimateTrade and Terrapass to learn about carbon offsetting and buy credits.

Travel naturally has an impact, but it also creates opportunities to be more thoughtful. Choosing efficient transportation, supporting local businesses, packing lighter, and respecting natural spaces all shape the kind of footprint you leave behind. Each trip offers chances to make choices that align with your values, enjoy the journey more fully, and leave places better than you found them.